After a high-drama vote, here’s what the Senate tax bill means for schools, parents and students

(The Washington Post) — Here’s a round-up of what the bill could mean for education. 1. It’s good for Hillsdale College (and others, too); 2. It’s good for private school parents; 3. It’s not so good for public school budgets; 4. It saves the school supply deductions; 5. It’s better for college students.

The Senate tax bill that passed in the wee hours of Saturday morning could have massive implications for schools and universities, students and parents. Public education advocates warned that certain provisions could put pressure on state and local spending for public schools while giving parents incentives to send children to private schools.

The bill passed 51 to 49 after senators worked through the night on last-minute revisions and amendments — including some scribbled in the bill’s margins. The legislation has to be reconciled with a version passed by the House before being sent to President Trump, but many of the provisions affecting education are likely to stay.

Public education advocates hammered the bill for offering incentives to private school parents through tax-free school savings accounts while eliminating the deduction for state and local taxes that fund public schools.